Human Genetics Unit of the Faculty of Medicine University of Colombo is the only centre in Sri Lanka dedicated to providing clinical genetic services including genetic testing and genetic counselling. In addition, HGU conduct both undergraduate, postgraduate, and CME courses in genetics for medical and allied health professionals and programmes aimed at raising genetic awareness among the public.
HGU has an active research programme in reproductive genetics. They play a major role to make genetic services available to the people of Sri Lanka and contribute to policy formation in the field of genetics in Sri Lanka.
The Biochemistry and Molecular Biology department plays an active role in the undergraduate medical curriculum, with a teaching commitment in the form of lectures, small group activities, problem based learning, interdisciplinary staff seminars and laboratory practical classes. In addition, a MSc. in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology is offered for postgraduate students. Research interests of the department include nutrition, molecular biology, cell culture, study of plant-based medicines and enzymology.
Research and Internships for several final year students of SIST are being facilitated at the Human Genetics Unit & the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular biology, University of Colombo.